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May 9, 2018

Indian Army may procure more Akash missile systems from DRDO

The Indian Army is likely to order another batch of Akash missiles,
India’s first indigenously built surface-to-air missile developed by the
DRDO. The Indian Army, which has shown immense interest in the Akash
missile system, is very satisfied with its operational capabilities and
performance, reported The Hindu. Speaking to the media Lt. Gen Parminder
Singh S Jaggi, Director General, Army Air Defence had said that the
defence forces were fully satisfied with the performance of Akash system
and that they were also intending to enhance its performance.

However,
it was also reported in 2016, that the Indian Army had rejected the
indigenously built Akash missiles. The Indian Army in 2016, had said
that it would not procure more Akash missiles and that it would instead
go for the Israeli quick reaction surface-to-air missiles(QR SAMs). It
had said that the Akash defence missile systems had not met its
operational requirements in defending enemy air attacks in the forward
areas. But, the Indian Army today seems to be convinced by its
capabilities and is likely to procure more missile systems, reported
DNA. The Indian Army continues to maintain the existing order for six
firing Akash batteries with hundred missiles each and the deal was fixed
for Rs 14,180 crore.

Akash missile is a medium-range
surface-to-air missile which can simultaneously engage multiple targets
in all kinds of weather conditions. The Akash system features a
launcher, a missile, an integral mission guidance system, autopilot
system, C4I centres, and also a multifunctional radar. Its system is
also equipped with batteries with control centre and radars which help
in tracking targets. For further efficiency, the system is also
integrated with a self-destructive device.

The missile launched
from this system can fly at a supersonic speed ranging from 2.8 Mach to
3.5 Mach. Its range capability is approximately 25 km. The Akash missile
is being developed by the DRDO under the integrated guided-missile
development programme (IGMDP). Inducted first in the May 2015, Akash
missile system has faced many difficulties, but has emerged as one of
best surface-to-air missile system after it was successfully tested in
December 2017.